Police investigating suspected burglary uncover huge cannabis factory

Officers called to boarded-up house after men were spotted loading bags into van in early hours

A large-scale cannabis factory has been discovered and a man arrested in Handsworth after police were called to a suspected burglary at an apparently-derelict house.

Police were alerted to the incident at a large terraced property in Lozells Road at just after 2am today (Thursday, July 11) after several men were seen loading bags into a van.

Police arrived within minutes and the boarded-up house revealed hundreds of cannabis plants growing in most of the rooms.

A 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis and is helping police with their enquiries.

Detective Sergeant Andy Sheldon, from the force’s CID, said: “This is an extremely sophisticated set up, with plants in most of the rooms in various stages of maturity.

"The electricity has been bypassed to provide power to enhance the growing conditions, which creates a safety hazard in itself.

“The windows are boarded up giving the impression that the house is derelict, but there has been a lot of activity behind the scenes."

He added: “Our forensics team are examining the property before we begin the process of dismantling the set-up and disposing of the plants.”

Police are asking anyone with any information to call them on 101 or alternatively information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

West Midlands Police launched a dedicated Drugs Investigation Team earlier this year with specialist officers tackling commercial cannabis production and targeting Class A dealers who impact on the quality of life of communities.